We set up systems of relationship to establish accountability for minimal performance.

That’s true. We do. We set up accountability groups so we can get close enough to each other to ask the “tough questions.” Have you lusted today? Did you complain? Have you been selfish?

Minimal performance. Avoiding sin. What would happen if we placed ourselves in relational environments for the purpose of encouraging one another to “love and good deeds.” Or more than that, what would happen if we held each other accountable for courageous exploits for Christ? What would happen if we gathered for the purpose of discovering what adventures in faith looked like and then held each other accountable for living out our destiny as world changers?

We act as though our destiny should be limited to keeping pure. That’s like taking a stand at the foot of the cross and defending a few square feet of turf. The Lord has empowered us to march forward and challenge the gates of hell. Maybe we should hold each other accountable for that! Not minimal performance, but Kingdom destiny.

Who have you prayed for? Who have you served? Creation is yearning for the revelation of the sons of God. Have you taken a step into that destiny?

Well I won’t back down
No I won’t back down
You can stand me up at the gates of hell
But I won’t back down

No I’ll stand my ground, won’t be turned around
And I’ll keep this world from draggin’ me down
gonna stand my ground
… and I won’t back down

~Tom Petty. I Won’t Back Down (Album: Full Moon Fever)